In this month's Paddler Spotlight, we're shining a spotlight on the brilliant work happening in Bristol to provide accessible paddlesport activities for people with disabilities.
Bristol-based charity, All-Aboard Watersports, has supported its local community to get out on the water through its inclusive paddling programme. The regular sessions have had a lasting impact on the lives of many participants.
Last year, the charity received a grant from our Stronger Together Fund to help them to cover the costs of a Paddleability instructor and purchase specialised paddle equipment. Over the past year, the project delivered more than 25 sessions to local paddlers.
The specialist equipment has made a big difference to the comfort and stability of the crafts. One participant, a young amputee, previously experienced pain after paddling. However, after using a specialist cushion, she now has a pain-free experience in the kayak, allowing her to go faster and maintain the stability needed for longer and stronger strokes.
Another participant struggled to grip the paddle and found sessions tiring. Now thanks to specialist hand straps, they’re able to take part in the weekly sessions.
“I can’t begin to express how much the Paddleability sessions mean to me. I’ve always loved water sports, but after I became disabled five years ago, I thought I wouldn’t be able to participate anymore. Then I found Paddleability! It’s a time every week when I can get out of my wheelchair and onto the water. I’ve grown stronger, gained confidence, and learned a lot from the instructors, but mostly, I’ve had fun doing it! It feels great to be on the water. It’s also wonderful that my partner can come along as my carer, so now we have a hobby we can do together!” – All-Aboard Watersports Paddleability participant
By offering weekly sessions, the charity has seen an increase in demand, both from existing paddlers and from new paddlers. Having the same instructors each week helped participants feel safe. They were able to build a relationship with people who know their needs and understand their personal goals.
Two participants are now working towards their Paddle UK Explore Award, allowing them to paddle independently outside of sessions.
Blaire Hannan, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator at All Aboard Watersports Centre, said:
“This funding has dramatically enabled us to support disabled paddlers in the community. The equipment we have been able to purchase has allowed us to accommodate a wide range of needs, ensuring everyone has a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience.
Consistent sessions with the same group of instructors mean that paddlers feel safe, reassured, and seen, as they are with people who know their needs and are working with them towards their personal goals.
One participant who experiences severe anxiety due to her Cerebral Palsy, recently told us that she gained so much confidence from attending that she booked a paddling trip—something she would never have done before. And another participant with Down's Syndrome has gained so much confidence that they now attend sessions independently, without their carer.
For many, this has opened up a world of opportunities and adventures that were previously unavailable to them.”
All-Aboard Watersports is doing a fantastic job of providing inclusive and accessible paddling opportunities for people with disabilities in Bristol. We look forward to seeing the project develop further in the coming years!
See how you can find a club or provider that offers Paddleability support with our search tool.
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